When most people think of Turkey, they imagine sunny beaches and warm weather. But we visited Turkey from January to March to experience its winter charm. Our first stop was two weeks in Istanbul, and it quickly became one of our favorite cities.
1. Is Istanbul worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely! If you enjoy cooler weather, smaller crowds, or want to travel on a budget, winter is an excellent time to explore Istanbul, one of the most visited cities in 2023.
2. How’s the weather in Istanbul during winter?
While Istanbul summers are hot, winters are relatively mild compared to the rest of Europe. Expect average highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 5°C (41°F) in January and February. Rain is common, with about 17-18 wet days per month, but you’ll also have clear, sunny days to enjoy the city’s beauty.
3. Where should you stay?
For a cozy and unique experience, I highly recommend staying at Hush Hostel in Kadıköy. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a vibrant community that feels like home. Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Hush Hostel offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle while still being close to all the action. With a beautiful garden, rooftop terrace, and cozy common areas, it’s perfect for meeting fellow travelers or just relaxing after a day of exploring.
Kadıköy itself is a lively neighborhood filled with trendy cafes, local markets, and street art, all just a ferry ride away from the historic center. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a longer adventure, Hush Hostel is the perfect base to explore Istanbul in winter.
Book now : www.hushhostels.com
4. Budget-friendly travel
Winter is perfect for budget travelers. Accommodations are cheaper, and you might even be able to negotiate a deal on a rental apartment. If you’re staying in a hotel, remember to shop around for the best prices and use a VPN to access sites like Booking.com, which are blocked in Turkey.
5. Tourist activities can be expensive
Istanbul is full of history, but some attractions, like Topkapi Palace or the Hagia Sophia, have high entrance fees (45 Euro and 25 Euro, respectively). If you plan to visit multiple sites, consider getting a museum pass. That said, many incredible experiences like visiting the Blue Mosque or wandering the Grand Bazaar are free.
6. Don’t miss the side streets near the Galata Tower
Explore the fascinating side streets around Galata Tower. This area is full of quirky shops selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade chess boards. Even if you’re just window shopping, it’s worth a visit!
7. Is Istanbul safe?
Yes, we felt very safe in Istanbul. Like any big city, it’s essential to stay aware and be cautious of common tourist scams (watch out for shoe cleaners!). But overall, we found locals to be incredibly friendly and helpful. One even paid for our metro tickets when we were unsure how to buy them!
8. Cats
Istanbul is famous for its street cats, and they are everywhere. The locals adore them, leaving food, water, and even cozy beds out for these furry friends. If you’re a cat lover, you’ll enjoy watching (or cuddling) these cute creatures all around the city.
9. Try Fish Dürüm
A must-try food in Istanbul is the fish dürüm. It’s a simple wrap filled with flavorful grilled fish, and it’s one of the best things we’ve ever eaten. Look for Yıldırım Usta Fish Wrap – it’s a tiny spot, but the taste is unforgettable!
10. Ayran
This traditional Turkish drink is a mix of yogurt, water, and salt, sometimes with a hint of mint. Ayran is refreshing, hydrating, and pairs perfectly with a fish dürüm!
11. Turkish Breakfast
Finally, don’t leave Istanbul without having a proper Turkish breakfast. It’s a feast of small dishes – cheeses, olives, honey, eggs, and more. Breakfast is a big deal in Turkey, so take your time and enjoy this delicious spread, especially if you’re stuck inside on a rainy winter morning.